Emerson Stage Overhire

Emerson College•Boston, MA

1d•$22 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Emerson Stage maintains an overhire list of experienced freelance theatre technicians to assist with build, load in and load out of our productions. Individuals on this list are scheduled on an as-needed basis. Emerson Stage sends out an email to the overhire list when these positions are required for projects, indicating the dates/times of the calls, the production and venue, and the positions open. If available, individuals may reply to the email with their availability and will be selected based on their technical experience to fill the call.

Requirements

Strong working knowledge of theatrical environments, live staging operations, and safety protocols
Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings, and safely operating power tools
Experience hanging, circuiting, focusing, and programming lighting fixtures (familiarity with ETC EOS software is highly desirable)
Experience with AV setup, signal flow, digital console operations (e.g., Yamaha systems), or theatrical A2 practices
Stitching skills, garment alterations experience, and experience serving on wardrobe run crews
Ability to collaborate effectively, integrate into new teams quickly, and work well under pressure
Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
Basic math skills, including geometry, angles, and fractions
Basic understanding of rigging, counterweight lineset operations, and automation systems

Nice To Haves

Professional safety certifications (such as OSHA 10-Hour or Aerial Lift training) are highly valued

Responsibilities

Support the construction, installation, and strike of scenery; interpret technical build drawings safely and efficiently alongside students in coordination with the Technical Director
Assist the Technical Director in managing safe theatrical rigging, fly rail operations, and flying or hung scenic equipment during load-in and load-out
Paint and finish all scenic elements including priming, texturing, sculpting, and applying scenic details as designed by the Scenic Designer and Charge Artist
Assist in periodic upkeep/touch up of painted elements during the run of a production. Inventory and stock items when needed. Assist in the creation of a “touch up kit” for production and maintain a clean and safe work space
Construct, install, and strike properties under the Props Director's guidance; interpret build drawings safely with students using materials such as wood, foam, plastic, and paint
Assist with the hang, focus, cabling, and circuiting of lighting plots under the supervision of the Production Electrician; support console programming and practical cabling/wiring
Set up, test, break down, and cable sound systems to execute designers' plots under the guidance of the Production Sound Engineer; maintain audio gear in coordination with the Sound Supervisor, set up microphones/AV systems, and operate mixing consoles during tech and performances
Assist with pulling, constructing, and altering costume garments; serve as wardrobe show crew. Maintain costumes throughout production runs. Works closely with the Draper and Costume Shop Manager to complete projects as needed including costume crafts, stitching, and alterations
Assist in the maintenance and implementation of wig or makeup requirements for productions. Assist with performer wig/hair styling, and theatrical makeup application or education to facilitate the designers intent
Serve as show run crew and maintain hair and makeup needs during productions. Ensure that quick changes, including those involving special effects makeup or wigs are achieved in a timely, safe and efficient manner
Install, test, and break down projection equipment; execute projection plans under the Projection Engineer's guidance, maintain video equipment, program media consoles, and operate projection systems during tech and shows
Support backstage run operations, including fly rail functions and deck track run crew duties
Assist with load-in and strike logistics, seating setups, event prep, and general hospitality
Work cross-departmentally as required and run basic light, sound, or video system boards during performances
Flexibility to assist cross-departmentally as needed